Magong Jin Guitou Battery (Under renovation, not open to the public) Introduction
Located on the western side of Penghu Island, at the extreme west of Magong Peninsula, southwest of the southwestern gate of Magong City, on the top of Turtle Head Mountain (now Magong Bay) to the southwest, it faces Fengguiwei Snake Head Mountain, previously known as "Snake Head", to the east and west, collectively guarding the entrance to Magong Harbor. Since ancient times, there has been a western outpost (West Port Battery) at Magong Bay serving as the right side of Magong, opposing the smoke tower and battery of Fengguiwei at the left side. The vaulted barracks are the main architectural form of the Jin Turtle Head Battery and are characteristic of the coastal defense fortifications in the Penghu area. The construction form of the barracks features thick walls made of 110-115 cm wide stone, serving as the foundation for the two side walls, topped with an arched vaulted structure made of red bricks. The thickness of the brick arch cannot be determined from the intact site, but generally, it is estimated to be around four layers. To protect the brick surface from water infiltration, a layer of three-section soil is applied on top, creating a rounded convex roof. The surface of the three-section soil is further coated with asphalt for external protection. Due to years of use, the outer layer inevitably develops cracks, requiring a new asphalt waterproof layer, covered with a layer of cement mortar for the outermost protection. For structural secrecy needs, a thick oil-based paint (deep green) is applied, becoming the standard practice of this battery. The outer walls and the edges of the door and window openings are often painted deep green, while the interior walls are painted white to create a brighter feel in the enclosed space. Currently, due to usage, all barracks have been partitioned into spaces of varying sizes, with the longest barrack on the southeast side (Building U) serving as the company commander’s room, armory, safety officer’s room, counseling officer’s room, and large dormitory. The shortest barrack on the northwest side (Building Y) is used as a rest room, sergeant’s dormitory, and wave station. The barrack facing the sea (Building V) serves as the deputy company commander’s room, squad leader’s room, storage room, administrative office, and paint storage room. Although the interiors of these spaces remain relatively intact, many wooden doors and windows have altered from their original appearance, with added screens, and the walls have electric wiring and gas lines in disarray that require organization or restoration to their former state. The most serious issue currently is the roof, which has severe surface cracking, and protective layers have gradually fallen off, necessitating careful excavation and thorough repairs to the waterproof layer; disordered lines should also be adjusted and improved in conjunction with repairs. Additionally, there is an exhaust pipe outlet at the roof's peak, either with a crude metal cover or made of hollow bricks, which should be replaced with copper to prevent rusting during roof work. If the environment permits, it would be advisable to verify and document the original partitions of the interior for future renovations to avoid burying historic remnants.
